Particle protection headwear apparatus

Abstract

Embodiments of particle protection headwear apparatuses and use thereof are detailed herein. In general, embodiments of the present invention include a shield and a shroud which couple to, or are partially or wholly integral with, a hat. The shield extends downwardly from the hat and is typically embodied as part of the hat. Further, the shield is designed for a user to be able to look through it. The shroud is coupled to and extends downwardly from the shield and the hat. The shroud extends entirely around a perimeter of the hat to form a breathable barrier between particles and the user's head. The shroud may be removeable from the shield and washable.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. provisional application No. 62 / 706,713, filed Sep. 4, 2020, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to personal protective equipment (PPE), and more particularly to a virus protection headwear apparatus. Whenever used herein, virus may also be understood to apply to bacteria or any other potentially infectious or injurious particles that may be inhaled, or that may be introduced by a hand touching eyes, nose, or mouth.[0003]Transmission of viral and bacterial infection in high exposure environments is a problem for which a solution is desperately needed. Current face masks and face shields leave gaps to allow virus-sized airborne particles in and out around the sides of the face mask. Face masks do not protect eyes from airborne particles. Face masks do not offer meaningful barrier to finger rubbing of e...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a virus protection headwear apparatus that can reduce the transmission of small virus-sized particles and help limit the transmission of viral and bacterial infection. It solves the problem of face masks that assist penetration of virus and force the wearer to breathe in or expel virus through the fabric. The apparatus makes it easier for some users to breathe without discomfort or difficulty and is comfortable to wear for longer periods of time compared to face masks or face shields. It provides significant—although not necessarily perfect—360-degree protection for airborne aerosolized and droplet particles, prevents accidental or intentional face rubbing contamination, and eliminates extreme positive and negative air pressure differentials that can breach fabric protections.

Problems solved by technology

Transmission of viral and bacterial infection in high exposure environments is a problem for which a solution is desperately needed.

Face masks do not protect eyes from airborne particles.

Face masks do not offer meaningful barrier to finger rubbing of eyes, nose, and mouth, and indeed may actually increase finger-touching to the face to constantly adjust the uncomfortable placement of the face mask.

Also, face masks are nasty and unpleasant (they accumulate mucus and spit and moisture), are uncomfortable and even painful (they often hurt the ears) to wear over long periods, may actually impair breathing for some individuals, and are very, very easy to pull down and defeat, even subconsciously.

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